This allows for ultimate control of the indoor environment through calculated outdoor air exchange, humidification/dehumidification, and air distribution without the unwanted infiltration of air and vapor that is more common in code-minimum traditional framing. We’ve already mentioned the ability for SIP construction to produce an air-tight building envelope. A Radiant Homes new construction project in MN that is using SIP construction. In fact,Īccording to SIPA, the load bearing area of SIPs is equivalent to building with 2×10 framing at 16 inches on center (conventional framing is 2×4 or 2×6 at 16 inches on center). This design allows for an advantage over conventional framing in handling in-plane compressive loads. ![]() The OSB sheathing on each side of the panel act as the flange of the beam, and the rigid foam core acts as the web. SIPs structural properties are similar to that of a steel W beam. Structural insulated panels also have an advantage when it comes to strength. Laboratory testing done by Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) found that blower door tests revealed that a SIP test room is 15 times more airtight than its stick framed According to the Structural Insulated Panel Association (SIPA), SIPs are known to be about 50% more energy-efficient than traditional “stick” framing. In addition, as a standard specification of the SIP construction process, all joints andĬonnections between panels are sealed. ![]() This is again because there are SO many fewer “joints” in the assembly through which air can infiltrate. Another reason for the exceptional thermal performance of SIPs is air-tightness. Structural beams are used at roof ridges and bearing points to allow for a continuous plane of roof panels. Although framing members are required to join panels together, and structural headers or columns may be required inside some panels, SIPs offer nearly CONTINUOUS insulation throughout the wall and roof systems, exponentially decreasing the “thermal bridging” that occurs through the framing members of traditional construction methods. Various R-values can be selected for the panels depending on the building’s climate zone. ![]() SIP wall and roof systems are constructed by placing and joining together the individual pre-fabricated panels on site. Let’s hone in on the key elements of SIP construction and the benefits provided thereof. The result is a building that is overwhelmingly energy efficient AND strong. SIPs can be engineered to fit nearly any building design. SIPs are used to construct the wall and roof assembly, meaning there are no traditional “studs” or trusses making up the shell and structural components of the building. The panels consist of rigid foam insulation sandwiched between two sheets of oriented strand board (OSB). Structural Insulated Panels constitute a high-performance building system which can be used for both residential and light commercial construction. Although the use of Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) started more than 85 years ago, SIPs are on the cutting edge of building methods for the 21st century and beyond.
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